Governor Kathy Hochul has appointed Freida D. Foster as Chair of the New York State Workers’ Compensation Board (WCB). Foster, who has served as a board member since 2009 and as Vice Chair since 2016, succeeds Clarissa M. Rodriguez, who stepped down from her role as Chair in July but will remain on the board. Renee Delgado, a board member since 2022, has been named Vice Chair.
“New Yorkers deserve trusted, well-experienced individuals serving them and putting their best interests forward,” Governor Hochul said. “I look forward to working with Chair Foster and Vice Chair Delgado in their new capacities as the Board continues their work in protecting the rights of employees and employers and ensuring our workers get the benefits they need.”
During her 16 years at WCB, Foster has reviewed many workers’ compensation appeals and contributed to efforts aimed at modernizing agency systems and processes. She played a significant part in implementing New York State’s Paid Family Leave program and supported day-to-day management of the agency.
“I am deeply grateful for the support from Governor Hochul and her executive team, as well as the incredible leadership team at the Board. I am honored to serve under this historic administration and look forward to building on the many important achievements made under the leadership of Chair Rodriguez,” said Foster.
Foster’s background includes roles in education, government service, and public relations. Before joining WCB, she worked at Burson-Marsteller managing large accounts such as Help America Vote Act (HAVA) and organized educational campaigns for New York City’s transition to electronic voting machines. She also serves on several boards focused on community service and student leadership, including chairing both Harlem Community Development Corporation Board of Directors and CUNY School of Public Health Advisory Board.
Renee Delgado brings experience from her legal career advocating for workers’ rights. Before joining WCB in 2022, she spent 14 years with the New York State Public Employees Federation (PEF), holding various legal positions including General Counsel. Her previous roles include work with the New York State Department of Labor, SUNY Colleges of Nanoscale Science and Engineering, district attorney offices in Queens County and Albany County, and legislative aide duties in the state assembly.
“I am honored to be appointed Vice Chair of the NYS Workers’ Compensation Board and thank Governor Hochul for the opportunity to serve our great state. I look forward to working with Chair Foster to deliver a fair and efficient system that protects the rights of injured workers and employers,” said Delgado.
Foster holds an MS in Corporate Communications from University of Wisconsin–Madison and a BA from Hofstra University; Delgado holds degrees from CUNY School of Law at Queens College, John Jay College in Manhattan, and SUNY Albany.
